Throne Speech strikes a balance for Vernon

June 23, 2017

"This Throne Speech represents a vision where British Columbians from all regions of our province can benefit from a strong economy, bridging the urban and rural divide through key investments in housing, health care, and childcare that will support continued growth."

Eric FosterMLA for Vernon-Monashee

[VERNON] – This week’s Speech from the Throne is a unique moment in history – not only for British Columbia, but also for Vernon according to MLA Eric Foster.

It reflects both the priorities British Columbians articulated in the recent election, and the ability to invest in programs and services that British Columbians depend on like never before, thanks to 16 years of sound fiscal management and building Canada’s leading economy. It also presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between rural and urban British Columbia and recognize that one region cannot succeed without the other as we build a stronger province.

“This Throne Speech represents a vision where British Columbians from all regions of our province can benefit from a strong economy, bridging the urban and rural divide through key investments in housing, health care, and childcare that will support continued growth,” said Foster.

Delivered in the legislature by Lieutenant-Governor Judith Guichon, the speech will be debated before members vote in what is expected to be a test of confidence of the recently re-elected government.

The speech from the throne outlines a bold vision, one that reflects the priorities British Columbians articulated in May: a balance between economic growth and job creation, investments in social programs, and environmental action. It outlines initiatives that will make a positive difference for British Columbia families.

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BACKGROUNDER:

Reforming our Institutions

A comprehensive ban on corporate, union, and third party donations, including in kind, to political parties

Improve a maximum donation limit for individuals to political parties

A referendum on electoral reform

Strengthen lobbyist legislation and regulations

Childcare and Early Childhood Education

An immediate $1 billion investment over the next four years – the largest in BC history – to create 60,000 new spaces over the next four years

Cover an additional 150,000 children with full or partial childcare subsidies

Increase the number of early childhood educators

Explore partnerships with school districts to co-locate new child care spaces at elementary schools

Fairer, Healthier Society

A new province-wide Poverty Reduction Strategy, with a particular focus on children

A $100/month increase to social assistance rates, with a process to recommend future annual increases

A plan to expand and build on the proven success of the Single Parent Employment Initiative

Basic income support for youth aged 18 to 24 transitioning out of care